City Council looks at revamping Winchester pedestrian routes 'to make the most of the city' (From Hampshire Chronicle)

City Council looks at revamping Winchester pedestrian routes 'to make the most of the city'

11:00am Friday 21st September 2012 in News By Wesley Rock

City Council looks at revamping Winchester pedestrian routes 'to make the most of the city'

EUROPEAN-style pedestrian routes for Winchester 's city centre are being considered by the council. It was claimed at a meeting last Wednesday (September 12) that Winchester was failing to maximise its potential as a scenic city. Drafts presented to the Winchester Town forum show raised footpaths, signs displaying walking times and wider pavements. The plans are the brainchild of architect Kate McIntosh. She said: “It's been found that in Germany, which has higher car ownership per capita than we do, people are more willing to walk because the provision for pedestrians is so much better.”

Ms McIntosh's ideas are backed by Winchester Action on Climate Change (WinACC) and the Winchester City Trust. Her proposals were well received at the forum, with chairman Brian Collin describing them as “fantastic”.

In response to increased rail travel, signage outside the station would direct commuters along Station Road and Upper High St toward the Westgate.

Ms McIntosh told council chiefs: “The proposal is to enhance and improve this pedestrian experience so this becomes the preferred route for visitors heading for the town centre, getting them to the Westgate and that incomparable vista over Winchester.”

Cllr Ian Tait described himself as an enthusiastic walker, but was cautious, saying: “However quick I walk it's still quicker for me to drive to the Guildhall by car. We need to break the psyche of walking.

“Sadly something like this is not the complete solution, but it is part of it.”

No costing has been calculated yet, as the drafts are still at the concept stage.